It was a warm spring day. I had just come back from a meeting with a couple of Disney collaborators. It was a Sunday so Vanessa and the boys were home. I was on my way home from the subway station when I decided to get some coffee and pastries at our bodega for lunch.

As i walked in I greeted Sara. She started working behind the counter about a month ago but nobody really knows who she is, which was unlikely in Washington heights. Antonio, the guy who runs this bodega, said she lives a couple of blocks away, but to be honest I've never really seen her around the neighborhood. I've been trying to get a bit closer to her since i like knowing my community and she is definitely less timid around me than before but it's still somewhat tense. I wonder why.

"Good morning Sara!"

"Good morning sir."

"It's Lin and you know that," I said with a smirk.

"Sorry, what can I get you today?"

She didn't make eye contact, instead she just looked down nervously.

"2 coffee and 4 fresh pastries por favor!"

As she made the coffee and packed the pastries I texted vanessa that I would be home in a couple of minutes.

"$4,57 please."

"There you go."

"Thanks."

"Have a good day Lin!"

"Heyy your learning, good job! And a good day to you too kiddo!"

I smiled at her before turning around and leaving the bodega not being able to take her timid eyes off my mind. Why was she so nervous around me?